Free And Low-Cost Exercise Options
As a diabetic, it's mandatory that exercise is a regular part of my life. But staying fit on a budget can be a challenge. Here are some ways to get that daily exercise without spending a fortune.
==> Go for a walk. If you live in a sub-division or neighborhood with good sidewalks, this is a great way to stay in shape. Living in the country, as I do, with narrow, winding roads, makes it a little frightening - especially if you like to walk before daylight! Ideally, find a friend who'll walk with you. The time will pass more quickly and you'll be safer, too. If you do decide to walk for exercise, be sure to keep your pace up. An evening stroll, while enjoyable, won't do much for your heart rate.
==> Get a stationery bike. While I'd prefer to ride a bike outside, those country roads are still a hazard. So we found a great deal on a stationery bike with all the bells and whistles ($35 through Craigslist). It monitors my speed, time, distance, and calories burned based on my weight. And this one has programs that change the resistance to make it seem as if I'm going up or down a hill. Even an older model with less features is a great way to burn calories when you can't get outside to do anything else.
HOT TIP: Find a biking buddy and challenge each other to a distance contest. Map out a route on an atlas. Track your mileage as you ride. Whoever reaches the destination first wins and the other one has to buy them lunch.
==> Use an exercise video or DVD. If you're fortunate enough to find one you like at the library, you can then search online or locally to buy a copy for yourself. But if not, you can often find used exercise videos or DVDs at a yard sale or thrift store for $1-$2. And since many of us only exercise sporadically, they're typically in very good condition. Find one you like with an easy to learn routine and start working up a sweat - to the oldies or otherwise!
==> Join a church exercise program. A couple of the large churches in our area offer aerobics classes for $2-$3 per session. Some simply follow a tape, though the company and motivation of working out with others is helpful. But there are some led by instructors as well. Call around and see what you can find. It's a lot cheaper than going to a gym!
==> Use the stairs. Not only in place of the elevator, which is a good thing, too. But walk up and down the stairs in your home a few times. Spend even 10-15 minutes a day going up and down the stairs and you'll begin to see results very quickly.
These are just a few very simple ideas to help you get in shape without breaking the bank. There are several others online at Frugal Fancy's Healthy Habits page.
Whatever you decide to do... do something. Exercise is key to long life and good health. And it makes you feel better almost immediately. So get off the couch, or out of that chair, and get busy. You'll be glad SO you did!
Article © Darlene 'Dee' Bishop. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Tags: budget exercise, exercise, free exercise, Low-Cost Exercise, staying fit
